M. J. BEAR RETURNS FOR FINAL TERM

Press, Volume C, Issue 29643, 13 October 1961, Page 22

M. J. BEAR RETURNS FOR FINAL TERM

The Essex professional, M. J. Bear, arrived by air at Harewood yesterday, to begin his third and final term as coach to the Canterbury Cricket Association. Bear, who will begin his coaching sessions at Rangiora on Monday, was greeted by officials of the association, including the president (Mr T. A. Tucker), Messrs W. A, Hadlee and A. R. Mac Gibbon. and T. Eltoft, chairman of management committee. “The coaching schedule will follow the same pattern as that over the last two years,’’ said Bear, “but I will be running an advanced course for those who were successful in the junior coaching sell ernes.’’ Bear has proved a resourceful and popular coach in Canterbury. His group coaching sessions—those employed in England—are being

followed by many coaches and clubs throughput Canterbury. At a short informal function at the airport, Bear was welcomed back by Mr Tucker In his reply he expressed his joy at being back in Christchurch once more. He was looking forward to a happy season. Asked about New Zealand’s chances for the South African tour, Bear said he had played against a team of prospective South African test players last year, and although these players were very good, New Zealand should fare well. He felt that fast bowler Bartlett, would give the attack a great deal of thrust. Speaking of Hampshire, winner of the county championship in England last season, he said it was a good all round team. The win was a popular one, and would do a tot of good for English cricket. Bear To Play For Riecarton ■Hie Canterbury Cricket Association’s professional coach, M. Bear, will this season play in the club competitions for Riecarton. This was announced last evening by Mr Eltoft, chairman of the management committee. of the Canterbury Cricket Association. Last season Bear played for Sydenham, and in the previous season for East Christchurch. Bear, who arrived in Christchurch yesterday, will not play in the first round of club matches starting tomorrow, but will be a regular player for Riecarton from the second round onwards.